10 Best gym shoes for men 2026 in the United States

The New Balance Men's 608 V5 is a solid choice for men looking for comfortable gym shoes suitable for various activities. It offers a snug and supportive fit thanks to its leather upper and dual-density collar foam, which also helps reduce ankle irritation during long wear. The ABZORB midsole technology and lightweight EVA foam provide good cushioning that absorbs impact well, making these shoes comfortable for all-day use without feeling too heavy—they weigh about 14 ounces, which is moderate for cross trainers.

Stability is enhanced by an internal midsole shank, giving solid support for different movements in the gym. However, the leather upper, while durable and stylish, limits breathability compared to mesh options, so your feet might feel warmer during intense workouts. Traction is reliable due to the rubber sole with flex grooves, helping prevent slips on common gym surfaces. These shoes have a low-top design and a moderate arch, fitting true to size, and are particularly suited for those with neutral arches.

One downside is that they are not water resistant and lack adjustable features beyond laces, which could affect fit for some users. For those seeking a durable, comfortable, and stable gym shoe with classic styling and moderate cushioning, the New Balance 608 V5 is a dependable pick, especially if breathability is not the top priority.

The Skechers Men's Summits High Range Slip-in Sneaker offers a convenient hands-free design that makes putting on and taking off easy, which is great if you want quick and hassle-free gym shoes. The exclusive heel pillow helps keep your foot securely in place, adding to the support and stability you need during workouts. The Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole provides soft cushioning, making these shoes comfortable for extended wear. Made with 100% vegan materials and being machine washable, they’re an appealing choice for those who prefer eco-friendly products and easy cleaning.

The slip-in style might not deliver as much tight fit or ankle support as traditional laced gym shoes, which could be a drawback if you do intense or lateral movements often. Breathability may also be limited compared to mesh shoes, so your feet might feel warmer during heavy exercise. The synthetic rubber sole should offer decent traction on gym floors, though specific tread details are not provided.

These sneakers are a solid pick for casual gym-goers or anyone valuing comfort, easy wear, and vegan materials, but they might fall short for those needing extra support or breathability for more demanding workouts.

The Brooks Men’s Ghost 17 is a solid choice if you’re looking for comfortable, everyday gym shoes that also serve well for running and walking. It fits true to size and offers a snug, breathable fit thanks to its air mesh upper, which keeps your feet cool during workouts. The shoe features moderate cushioning with a special DNA Loft v3 foam that makes each step feel soft yet responsive, helping reduce foot fatigue on longer sessions. Support-wise, it provides neutral stability, which suits most foot types without feeling restrictive.

The outsole uses durable rubber made with recycled materials, offering good traction for indoor gym floors as well as outdoor surfaces. At 600 grams, it’s not the lightest in its category but balances weight and cushioning well for comfort. One thing to note is it’s not water resistant, so it’s best to avoid wet conditions. Its design includes smooth flex grooves aimed at natural foot movement, which can help keep your stride steady and efficient.

Certified for diabetic use and bearing the APMA Seal, it’s a great option if foot health is a priority. This shoe fits well for gym users who want reliable cushioning and breathability with moderate support, but if you need extra stability or lighter weight, you might want to explore other models.